Germany emphasizes that Ukraine's capitulation is not acceptable

• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz asserts that Ukraine's capitulation is not acceptable.
• Germany promises support for Moldova in its reforms.
• Russia demands the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Donbas to end the war.

This is reported by RBC Ukraine, Interfax Ukraine.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the war in Ukraine should end, but "not at any cost." He emphasized that Ukraine's capitulation would only give Russia time to prepare for a new offensive war. This thought was expressed by Merz at a joint press conference with the leaders of France, Poland, and Moldova in Chișinău.

Merz noted, "We do not want Ukraine to capitulate. Such capitulation would only buy Russia time, and Putin would use this time to prepare for a new offensive war."

He also emphasized that the doors of the European Union for Moldova are always "open" and promised to support the country on this path, including sending German experts for assistance in the reforms. Merz confirmed that Europe will remain with Moldova on issues of preserving "freedom and sovereignty," taking into account Russia's aggressive stance.

Russia's Demands

To end the war against Ukraine, Russia demands that Ukrainian defenders fully withdraw their forces from the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. In general, Moscow proposes to establish a new front line in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. French President Emmanuel Macron noted that Moscow's proposals essentially signify Ukraine's capitulation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on these demands, stating that Russia's readiness to seize Ukraine is not an option.

Tags: Ukraine/Russia/Europe/Politics